The word Sanatan, or Hinduism and the hindu rituals, are broad in its scope. Being Hindu means following religious rituals with spiritual consciousness and virtuous conduct. Hinduism imparts the message of “Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah” (May all beings be happy).
Every religious custom in Hinduism has a scientific foundation. Followers of Hinduism observe many traditions and beliefs, but some people dismiss them as superstitions and question their validity. In the Vedic tradition, every belief and ritual is considered an ornament of life, with generations of practice often backed by scientific reasons, though these are not always evident today.
This article delves into the scientific reasoning behind religious fasts, worship, and rituals in Hinduism. Understanding these will illuminate why our ancestors established such scientifically grounded systems for future generations.
Idol Worship: The Heart of Hindu Devotion
Idol worship is paramount in Sanatan Hinduism. The divine qualities emanating from idol worship bring fruitfulness and merit into human life, infusing positive energy and helping the mind remain steady.
Scientific Reasoning: Without an idol or focal point during pooja, the mind tends to wander. Having an idol helps focus the mind, enabling worship with proper concentration.
Worship of the Peepal Tree
Sanatan Dharma is one of the oldest religions, and the poplar tree is historically significant in its worship practices. Lord Vishnu is believed to reside in the root, Shiva in the middle, and Brahma at the front of the peepal tree, making it a symbol of divine presence. Worshiping the peepal tree is also believed to mitigate planetary sufferings, especially Shani Dosha.
Scientific Reasoning: Worshiping the peepal tree fosters respect for it, discouraging people from cutting it down. The peepal is unique in that it releases oxygen even at night, contributing to environmental health.
Greeting with Folded Hands
Hindus greet others with folded hands, a practice rooted in both religious and scientific reasoning.
Scientific Reasoning: Folding hands creates acupressure pressure on the fingertips, which benefits the eyes and ears. This gesture also helps in remembering the person greeted, as the contact and pressure stimulate the brain.
The Importance of Surya Namaskar
In the Vedic tradition, it is customary to perform Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation) and offer water to the sun every morning. This ritual is believed to start the day on a positive note and invoke the grace of the Sun God.
Scientific Reasoning: The sunlight passing through the water improves eyesight, while the morning sun rays provide a sense of positive energy and eliminate body stiffness.
Worship of the Basil Plant
In Hinduism, planting a basil (Tulsi) plant in the house courtyard is a common practice. Regular worship of Tulsi is believed to invite the grace of Maa Lakshmi, bringing prosperity, happiness, and peace to the household.
Scientific Reasoning: Basil strengthens the immune system. Having a basil plant at home ensures its leaves are used regularly, contributing to better health and disease prevention.
The Importance of Fasting
Fasting holds paramount importance in Sanatan Hinduism, with religious rituals often considered incomplete without it. Most Hindu festivals involve some form of fasting.
Scientific Reasoning: According to Ayurveda, fasting improves digestion and detoxifies the body by eliminating harmful elements. Researchers also suggest that fasting reduces the risk of cancer, heart diseases, diabetes, and other ailments.
Understanding the scientific foundations of Hindu rituals reveals the profound wisdom of our ancestors. These practices, from idol worship to Surya Namaskar and Tulsi worship, blend spirituality with health benefits, fostering physical and mental well-being. By recognizing the scientific reasoning behind these traditions, we not only honor our cultural heritage but also enhance our appreciation for the holistic benefits they offer. Embracing these rituals with renewed understanding enriches our spiritual journey and daily lives, connecting us deeply with the essence of Sanatan Hinduism.